Friday, September 30, 2011

We are very grateful and lucky to have Coach Rajko. There is no question that the new 'system' he has introduced to Philippine basketball has been effective both offensively and defensively, and it suits the international game. Of course, nobody is perfect but Coach Rajko is an extremely clever guy. Respected national coaches from other teams would go up to me and tell me how lucky we are to have Rajko as our coach. And more than the X and O's that he has taught us, for me, his biggest contribution is the non-negotiable values that he instills upon the team. "Work as hard and as HONEST as you can!" Those are his famous words. Even if he seldom smiles, I suppose this is the reason why he is so loved by the Filipino fans. It's tough to be a coach, there are many other 'experts' especially when you lose a game. But I cannot forget what he told us, "Even if I will be digging my own grave, I will continue to do what I believe is the right thing to do!" That's why we players have utmost respect for the guy.

What got me more emotional after the Korea game was when Coach started saying goodbye to the team and to the Philippines in the locker room. I remember in our first team building session 2 years ago, we played a game where each team member has to give one chip to just one person he trusts the most in the team. Many of us gave our chips to Coach Rajko. Coach Rajko gave me his chip. I cannot forget that. And now I feel like I've let him down.

For bringing Philippine basketball to another level, we must give utmost appreciation to Coach Rajko. And we have to admit, sometimes he is even 'more Filipino' than some of us through his sacrifice and dedication towards the improvement of Philippine basketball. At this moment, his status is uncertain but he already has bigger offers internationally and he will not have problems finding another job. That's for sure. Wherever he goes next, I wish him well. I think what he needs to do is to rest and take care of his health first and foremost.

ALL IN GOD'S PLAN

Throughout the tournament, I prayed the rosary every night. I've been reading a book of homilies (I'll talk about it in another entry). I spoke to God more than I usually do because I have more idle time when I'm abroad, which should not be the case though. We should make an effort to pray and talk to God as much as we can despite our busy schedules. After the loss, again I prayed for answers.

I remember what Jimmy (Alapag) told me after the game when I was feeling bad, "Making it to the final 4 is a huge step already. We cannot just expect to win the Gold overnight. It's a step by step process."

Then I thought about they way we lost to Korea, it was an unreal game! Like a divine hand had something to do with it. God is telling us something. Despite being unlucky in the last two games, He showed us throughout the tournament that we are very competitive with all the teams who participated, including the top teams that finished ahead of us. I believe it is His way of telling us that "you are a good team, but it is not your time yet. You must first fine tune and resolve all your divisions and differences! " God is a good God and He has a purpose for everything. It just wasn't meant to be yet.

I'm very very thankful to be given this rare opportunity to represent the country for the past 2+ years! It's truly a big big honor! It's both fun and painful but all worth it!

I'd also like to honor my teammates who have sacrificed tremendously for the country and poured their hearts out during the games, whether or not there's a lot at stake. It's been so much fun playing with some of the best players in the country, not to mention great guys as well. It's sad that we will have to part ways after years of practicing, traveling & competing in tough games together but I know they will make wonders for their respective teams in the PBA and I wish them all the best!

I believe in destiny, but for now, making it to the London Olympics wasn't meant to be. Sooner or later, I strongly believe that the Philippines will regain its top spot in Asian basketball. We saw how close we are. We just got to keep working towards that goal, together! I hope I will still be actively playing when that happens. But for now, life must go on and we have to keep getting better. 2013 is not so far away.

Once again, a super big THANK YOU to all of you for your unwavering love and support for the team!! You certainly keep us inspired! GO PILIPINAS! :)

Chris

P.S. After the heartbreaking loss to Korea, I bumped into Coach Baldwin of Jordan in the hotel lobby. He gave me a big hug and he said such simple yet wonderful words that hit the spot and I'd like to share it to you guys because it can be applied to all. He said "This is just the first of many more tougher games you will experience in life. Just remember to be the best player that you can be. More importantly, be the best person that you can be. Hold on to those two things and you will be fine."

53 comments:

Patty
said...

"What got me more emotional after the Korea game was when Coach started saying goodbye to the team and to the Philippines in the locker room. I remember in our first team building session 2 years ago, we played a game where each team member has to give one chip to just one person he trusts the most in the team. Many of us gave our chips to Coach Rajko. Coach Rajko gave me his chip. I cannot forget that. And now I feel like I've let him down." -I was not able to hold back the tears anymore after reading this part, Chris. It must have been such a pressure on your part knowing that Coach Rajko trusted you so much that he gave you his chip. But surely it was also an honor for you.

"God is a good God and He has a purpose for everything. It just wasn't meant to be yet." -True! I also tell myself this especially when going through rough times. Helps you get by.

You as a firm believer and follower of Christ just makes me admire you all the more, Chris. You deserve all the blessings you have been showered. I hope you continue to pray the rosary, I hope you continue to hope and have faith that someday, we'll get there.

Again, thank you for everything you and the rest of Gilas has sacrificed for Philippine Basketball. You have been very unselfish and nationalistic. Don't ever feel that your efforts have gone wasted, because they're not. You will always be remembered as the team who helped bring the Philippines back to the limelight of international basketball. You have earned the respect not only of Filipino basketball fans, but also those from other countries.

chris, you always inspire basketball fans and countrymen since your still a Blue Eagle. Thank you for uniting the Filipino people sharing your life with us. We will always remember that Smart Gilas is the best team formed in Philippine basketball. Those painful losses will make you and the rest of the Gilas team to be stronger in the coming tournaments. We will see you guys in the 2016 Olympics and Go Pilipinas.

Gosh, as in nakakaiyak naman po..dito sa part 2 ako bumigay, knowing baka umalis na talaga si coach?!...yup, we must thank him for his dedication and love for the system? este for the country even more than many Filipinos nga...even MVP, nakakabilib ang mga efforts nila...at siyempre to all Gilas players...( pati name ng team magbabago kaya?)

Hay, if only I can write like you do..I could express sana what's in my heart as well.. Basta, bottomline is basketball is not just a sport..may life stories behind every game!!! wherein God can simply talk to us in His secret ways!!hehe. defense Lord?!!

Hi Sir Chris! I felt sadness in your blog. We fans were also sad but we know that its nothing compared to what Gilas felt. Sabi nga ng friend ko when we talked about it, "Sayang tlaga at nkakalungkot. Kung ganito tayo what more ung nafeel ng Gilas players." But again Filipinos were proud Gilas went that far. Everything happens in God's plan and time. You may haven't succeed as a team but sure you will individually and it will be more than what u may have expected during the Fiba games. Congratulations Chris at sa buong Gilas family! :)

it's okay capt. maybe it's not your time yet but I assure you even tho you did'nt make it, we are still proud of what Gilas team showed in the FIBA Asia. This is not the end for you guys, this is just the beginning.

It was a great journey Chris and Team Gilas! My tatay and little bro are big fans and I got the news from them about FIBA and we were all utterly disappointed with the results and as you said, missed opportunities. I think you're right though, it's not yet meant for us. I do hope though that the Philippines will continue to develop a team and not stop at this point. It's sad that Team Gilas are disbanding but I believe that since you guys have started this, greater things will come for the Philippine Basketball Team!

we are very proud of you and the team not just because you ranked higher after 24 years... it is the matter of putting your heart to play for the country and sacrificing every drop of sweat, energy, time and even physical pain just to play and be better in every game.. it is such a priceless endeavor that not all people/players would do... that Twitter trend after your game againts Korea #thankyouGILASPILIPINAS expresses how grateful we are to have you guys... we will forever be thankful and proud :)

I am aware of all the sacrifices that you guys made just to keep our Olympic dream alive. I am so heartbroken with your loss to Korea. Maybe one, if not the most painful fan-feeling that I felt in my whole life. Shattered heart, two sleepless nights. I feel for you. Iniisip ko na lang na God has a bigger and better plan for GILAS. All the pain will be the source of strength on the upcoming journey. We will only get better and better. Despite everything, I still believe. The road to London Olympics may be over, but we will take other path. Better path for sure. GILAS forever!

Cris thank you for everything. You and the rest of Gilas has sacrificed a lot for the country...and we are really really PROUD of you. True...it's not yet our time but the journey continues and soon/someday we will get there.

I know that nothing we say or do can take away the pain you guys are feeling right now. But believe me; my heart is filled with deep respect and gratitude to you and to the rest of the GILAS team. Try to remember that you are stronger than any problem you encounter or any disappointment life will bring. If life gives you a single reason to go backwards, show that you have thousand reasons to move ahead. This is the spirit which you have. Just shake off all the negativities, march on and you could see success standing nearby with open arms to welcome you. This might not be our time, but I am pretty sure it will come, malapit nah promise, we’re almost there :D

Still, Congratulations Chris and always remember, we are PROUD of you, of Coach Rajko, and the rest of the TEAM. MABUHAY SMART GILAS PILIPINAS!!

"This is just the first of many more tougher games you will experience in life. Just remember to be the best player that you can be. More importantly, be the best person that you can be. Hold on to those two things and you will be fine." -- KUDOS, to Coach Baldwin, very well said!! & here’s a BIG HUG from me too.

But like everyone's been telling you, we are so proud of the team. Disappointed, yes, because we know you could have brought home a medal. But we are so proud you made it to the Final 4. It's going to be quite sad that the team's disbanded already, I also hope and pray that you will still be part of the Gilas 2.0!

I've been a fan of yours since your Ateneo days and it feels really great to see you from carrying your school to the championship to carrying the Philippine flag to international tourneys! I admire your selflessness and patriotism. Wish we had more people like you, truly a man for others! :)

our remote's return button was abused last saturday, as i was switching between uaap game 1 & ur game. my heart was shattered twice (sat & sun) & if it was only possible, pumasok na sana ako sa TV para i-hug ka and the rest of the team.

it may not yet be the time for the national team to enter the olympics, but the fact that you guys reached that far can be viewed as a sign that you guys are nearing your goal.

Chris, i did not do my laboratory experiments just to watch the quarter- and semifinals, that means no progress report. I was so disappointed that I did not come back to the laboratory for one more week. For one, It was difficult to accept the ending of that game and second, my Jordanian classmate was watching also the game. Hmmm. That's why I understand your situation. To relieve this, I watched any kind movies for the whole week and now I am fine again. Thanks for this blog. Hope you will not change your passion and dedication to the Philippine Basketball. - From a huge fan in Europe.

Dude, i've seen you play when you're still in grade school , to highschool (tiong lian) up to college. You have the heart and grit to fight for our country despite your height disadvantage which a lot of people say. With the Gilas program about to end ( Rumors say and the exit of Coach Toroman) will be a big blow for Philippine basketball. Not even the best Players in the PBA or a bunch of Filams can duplicate your team's achievement. Not even for the next 24 years.

i have to admit, i started supporting Smart Gilas only because you were playing for the team. what can i do, i've been your fan for how many years now. but after seeing how the team plays, i started believing that yes, the national team can do it. even your stint in the PBA, i watched all the games and my heart broke when you guys did not make it to the finals after a strong start. then i followed your next games, this time not only because of you but because i already admired the team. as i was reading your blog, i can feel my heart breaking and i can feel the pain you were feeling. i was deeply moved by your blog and i just could not find the words to say to make you feel better.. i admired that you did not join the draft for the PBA because you chose to play for the National team. maybe this is just one of the many sacrifices that you made for the team. i'm pretty sure that you made all the Filipinos proud! God is good, he's gonna give it soon, not yet now. maybe he has a good reason. So please don't feel bad, we're proud of you! i am! we appreciate the efforts that you guys made! and thank you to coach toroman! he moulded you guys into better players! God Bless chris! please don't feel bad na hah? smile! :)) -renee magtoto

i am one of the beleivers of smart gilas from the day it was built-up i continously supporting them and reading all the articles, news just to be upadated for the group, i am one of the thousands fans screaming and waiting fot=r the long que in al ahli club here in dubai...i dream also the same dream they have...i beleive that one day i will see the philippines as one of the competitor in OLYMPICS..i have a big respect to Mr. MVP, Noli Eala, Coach Rajko Toroman, all the staff of the team and all the players..Once again thank you very much for all the effort, time, sacrifices you have thrown to the team just to give the respect and glory to our country..May God Bless you all and the entire filipinos all over the world..

You might've lost this game. but you've achieved so much from everything that has occurred. heck, though i'm not a basketball fan, i watched a lot of your games. Not only because i was hoping you would win but because seeing you guys there, made me feel proud to be a Filipino. What all of you have achieved is something every Filipino should be proud of. :D

everything happens for a reason..what ever reason(s) it is am sure it's for the greater good of everybody..GOD has plans and that plans will not only bring the best in everyone but also will bring us to greater glory..again nothing to be ashamed off..hats of too you..and the rest of the team:)

You guys were really great captain! You really were! God must have a better plan for all of you. Mr. Alapag is right...this is just a stepping stone. This can still give a big impact in the future of basketball. Sayang nga for now...but I believe we won't say "Sayang" in the future. The future is still bright of us. There is still something that can happen...for the better!

You guys were really great captain! You really were! God must have a better plan for all of you. Mr. Alapag is right...this is just a stepping stone. This can still give a big impact in the future of basketball. Sayang nga for now...but I believe we won't say "Sayang" in the future. The future is still bright of us. There is still something that can happen...for the better!

whooah!! i'm crying again now. as a fan i cried because i dont want gilas to part ways. it's hard to accept that we won't be seeing you guys play together again. i know that nothing is permanent in this world. and i know you guys need it to be a better player and person. it must be hard for all of you. but for me Smart Gilas Pilipinas is not gilas without coach rajko and the 10 players who stood by him until the end!! I just hope that someday we'll see you all together!!!

"P.S. After the heartbreaking loss to Korea, I bumped into Coach Baldwin of Jordan in the hotel lobby. He gave me a big hug and he said such simple yet wonderful words that hit the spot and I'd like to share it to you guys because it can be applied to all. He said "This is just the first of many more tougher games you will experience in life. Just remember to be the best player that you can be. More importantly, be the best person that you can be. Hold on to those two things and you will be fine.""

Sir Chris! Always Keep the Faith and I know that GOD has greater plans for you. Thank you for inspiring us, Filipinos.

Chris, I believe that the term "sayang" is not appropriate to describe your performance. It was an eye opener though, that it is never done overnight... We are really proud of SMart Gilas, nuff said...

Chris! I've said this before but, I always remember how you asked us a few years ago in this blog whether you should go to the PBA or play for the national team. You definitely made the right decision! When I suggested that you play for the country, I never really thought it would come to this. Of course, I put all my faith in the team once it was formed but I never really imagined then that the program will be this successful. It was all a dream then but I watched as you guys made that dream materialize, one tournament at a time. It just goes to show how much passion, dedication and commitment you guys gave to the team: all the players that have been part of the team, the coaching staff and of course, Coach Rajko. You guys made us believe that our dream was indeed achievable. You did not get the trophy this time, but now we know we can. And I'm sure, in the coming years, we will. Like you said, maybe it's just not our time yet. So it’s no longer a question of whether we can but whether we will. I'm so glad you're staying to play for the national team. I know the next Gilas will outdo the next one..but the first one set the bar. :) I am so proud of the whole team! You guys just play. No intention of self-glorification...you stick to the system and just aim for the win each time. Even if the team didn't get so much support initially, you guys still worked hard to improve your game and become more competitive.I can't imagine you not playing basketball anymore...so please play as long as you can.. :) especially for flag and country.We love you so much Chris! We are so proud of you! You always prove us each time that all our efforts in supporting you are just well worth it. We know you're not perfect but I know you just try to do the best you can each time and just do what you know is right..and that's why you're awesome! You inspire me. :)

Your faith in God is what makes you great, Chris. We Filipinos are proud of the Smart Gilas team. Yes many are saying "Sayang" included me, it hurts to see the team lose against Korea. But I know you all did your best, making it to the semi-finals. Coach Rajko did a really good job, and special mention to Mr. MVP who started the program.Goodluck on your basketball career.You're a true inspiration for the youth!

Sad to hear that Coach Rajko will no longer handle the Gilas. I haven't watch your games live but when I'm watching it on TV, I really saw your connection as a team. And every time Coach defends you guys inside the court... wow!

Go Smart Gilas!!!

BTW are you still gonna play for the national team?well I hope so or else where would they find a captain like you.hahaha

My day isn't complete without checking your twitter and blog.... kaya may I ask din po if the other players have blogs?...kahit sumali p sila sa PBA, for me, forever Gilas pa rin sila..tnx for sharing their 3 yrs with the team ..and may He leads you toward that Olympic dream .

hi sir chris!sa wakas i finally read your blog..i hope you're feeling well about the result..i've been a Gilas follower since the team was formed..honestly,at first medyo hesitant ako because it was composed of mostly collegiate players but since i love the game of basketball and it will be the new National team to watch out for,i felt excited and hopeful!your game against syria was the only game i missed because i was attending to my mother who was confined in the hospital that time so i asked my eldest sister a favor of updating me about the game thru text!she left me hanging of who won by just texting me the final score,kainis!hehehe!the game against jordan and korea are painful and i agree with you po na the latter was the most heart breaking loss..kahit na ako sa tv lang nanood i can feel the sadness and disappointment especially of jvee casio..but i saw that you are the one who first approached him and hugged him..a nice gesture for consoling him,apir po tayo dyan!i was touched by the "chip story" you mentioned..maybe if i was coach rajko,i'll do the same thing..you exemplified the true essence of basketball..TEAMWORK,TRUST and SHARING THE BALL..you don't put too much importance in scoring big for the team but in creating more sc0ring opportunities for your team mates.for me,YOU ARE THE HEART OF SMART GILAS..a team captain not just in the name but in the true meaning of it..

lastly,CONGRATULATIONS po!what you and the team achieved was truly a great accomplishment..as you said,maybe not yet at this time but as i believe.."darating din tayo doon" we believe because you and the rest of the people working in the GILAS program believe!

I teared up in this entry. :( i can really feel your frustrations and disappointments. Pero kahit ganon pa man, i can see light at the end of the tunnel. :)) Just always work hard and be prayerful. God is always there for our team. :)Godbless you, Chris! More power!

hmmmm.... kaya pala... im really soooo soooo sad di na muna kayo makakalaro sa Gilas most esp tiu este u! hehehe... haaaaay! soooo sad! sigh! tsk! tsk! tsk! was soooo looking forward pa naman sana to see Gilas most esp tiu in the Olympics! anyways, nanjan na yan. we cant do anything about it na, but hope for the best na someday makapaglaro ulit kayo most esp u esp sa olympics! alam mo, i really prayed so hard for the team always! most esp u! napakalaki ng tiwala ko sa team nyo na u can make it to the olympics talaga even win a medalor the gold! ganun ako sobra kabilib at hanga sa team nyo! sobra galing nyo most esp tiu! napahanga nu talaga ako most esp u! pati kay coach rajko! di bale, im soooo happy and relieved naman u have a very optimistic and happy attitude na ur looking forward and that it may still be possible u can still play for the next olympics! talaga ha? sana mapromise mo yan! gusto ko talaga lagi kita nakikita na naglalaro ng basketball. most esp win the olympics! i know thats ur ultimate dream and goal in basketball and one of ur happiness in ur life! may God be so always kind to a very kind and pure soul like u. You and your family are always in my prayers inc ur safety. God bless u and ur family always! Stay happy ha? Always keep that so cute, charming and happy smile of yours! Hehehe.... take great care always! a pat on ur back, a listening ear, a very good friend, and a drink of ur favorite happy lemon tea or warm milo with milk (hahaha! uuuuy! i almost drink that every night ah! most esp ikaw ung nasa sachet! so happy ako! hahahaha!)to soothe u on what happened... my prayers to u and ur family always esp for ur safety!.... God bless u and ur family always! ang ganda nung advice ni coach baldwin of jordan. thats the best advice i heard which i will always apply to myself and keep in mind... actually,thats what i always do, kaya lang im kinda wavering and faltering, kaya ur advice came just in time! thanks so much for u & God! an addition to that though, be the best person u can be with God and ul just be fine!.... cheerio!!!!!!!!! FROM YOUR MOST NUMBER ONE FAN, Jo Ann Faith Paragas of Cebu

My deepest sympathy to you and Gilas.... Our deepest, warmest and tighest hugs to you all! You and your team had done your very best! You and your team made all of us Filipinos so proud always! Mabuhay Team Gilas and Chris Tiu!!!!! Til then! in God's time!.... God bless you and Gilas always! We'll all pray for you and Gilas that you'll all be back in God's time.... Let's keep all our hopes high! Im sure it will happen!... Your Topmost Fan, Jo Ann Faith Paragas of Cebu

i know it's kinda late to post a comment for this. we're already halfway of November. anyway, i really appreciate your total honesty regarding your reflections on the FIBA Asia. you were disappointed with the outcome of the game yet, you learned something from that experience and you still praised God (which is the best thing you've ever done). you & your team do have great plans accompanied with smashing efforts to help bring our country into the spotlight of international basketball. stay optimistic about that & never lose hope in God. as you continue to broaden your skills, remember this verse from Isaiah 54:2 "Enlarge the place of your tent, and let them stretch out the curtains of your dwellings; do not spare; lengthen your cords, and strengthen your stakes." God is with you.